Police: Small Dog Fatally Stabbed During Burglary

<> on August 11, 2010 in North Miami, Florida.File photo of a cop car. (credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

PHOENIX (AP) — Phoenix police say a family returned home to find their residence trashed and their small dog fatally stabbed.

Police say the suspect or suspects involved in Wednesday’s break-in found a sword in the house and used it to stab the 3-year-old Shih Tzu numerous times. The dog was in its kennel at the time, and police say he posed no threat.

The family took the dog to the vet but its injuries were so extensive it had to be put down.

Police say the suspect or suspects also punched holes in walls and dumped liquids from the refrigerator around the house. They also stole electronic equipment and clothes.